HIST 1084 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Pseudoscience, De Beers, Mass Production
Document Summary
1870-1914, europe and america gain control of 10 million square miles containing 20% International race for new colonies to meet industrial needs (resources, markets) of world"s land and 10% of world"s population. Way for conservative elites to win popular support in a democratic age. In 1880, european countries had colonies or economic activity with about 15% of africa, this changed as nations pushed. British troops and their native allies killed 11,000 and wounded 13000 enemy trop. Darwin"s scientific theory on natural selection only within animal world. Imperialists twisted it into pseudo-science as justification for racism and plunder within human world. Rhodes spearheaded a movement to expand british control across africa. Present locals to sign under coercion to exploit territory. Mass production of quinine allowed white soldiers to combat malaria. Increased demand for new foods transformed tropical agriculture. Problem solver for elites in a democratic age. Seen as high industrial and military potential.
